2023 Subaru Ascent

The 2023 Subaru Ascent is a popular three-row SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and suite of safety features. All 2023 Ascents are equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Owners often praise the Ascent for its comfortable ride, family-friendly features, and strong resale value. However, some common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, excessive fuel consumption (especially when towing), and occasional CVT issues.

Engine

2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil light illumination and potentially engine knocking or damage if oil levels are not maintained.
  • Solution: Subaru recommends monitoring oil levels and performing an oil consumption test. In some cases, piston ring replacement or engine replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $7,000+ depending on the repair (piston rings vs. engine replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noises from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT

• CVT Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced hesitation or jerking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can manifest as a lag in response when pressing the accelerator or an uneven feeling during gear changes.
  • Solution: A software update to the CVT control module may improve shifting. In more severe cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) - $5,000+ (CVT replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Whining Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Audible whining noise emanating from the transmission area, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Inspection of the CVT fluid level and condition, followed by fluid change if necessary. If the noise persists, CVT replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid change), $5,000+ (CVT replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes and reboots intermittently. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the infotainment unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially in cold weather, requiring jump starts or battery replacement.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws, replace battery with an upgraded one, ensure the charging system is working correctly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshields cracking easily from minor impacts or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the type of windshield and installation costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment Screen Glare
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive glare on the infotainment screen, making it difficult to see in bright sunlight.
  • Solution: Use of an aftermarket anti-glare screen protector. There is no OEM fix for this.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50+ for an aftermarket screen protector.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Third-Row Seat Access Difficulties
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty accessing the third-row seats, especially for adults, due to limited space and maneuverability with the second-row seats folded or slid forward.
  • Solution: No official fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Subaru Ascent, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. The most concerning are the potential for CVT problems and excessive oil consumption, as these can lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues with the infotainment system can be frustrating, but are typically less expensive to resolve. Overall, potential buyers should have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase and be prepared for the possibility of some of these common issues arising. The severity of issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs.